The history and evolution of hip-hop in Japan. Japanese rap in perspective

Date and Time: February 27, 2024, starting at 6:30 pm
Venue: Maison de la Culture du Japon à Paris, 101 bis Quai Jacques Chirac, 75015 Paris
Presenters: Aya Soejima (MCJP), Roger Atangana Kolo (RJHH), Sonikem (RJHH)

The Maison de la Culture du Japon à Paris (MCJP), in partnership with Real Japanese Hip Hop, is proud to present an exceptional conference dedicated to the world of Japanese hip-hop. Join us on February 27, 2024, from 6:30 PM for an evening of discovery and sharing around this influential musical culture.

Hip-hop, and specifically Japanese rap, has emerged as a significant cultural force, altering the musical landscape and significantly influencing contemporary society in Japan. This immersive conference will explore the origins and evolution of this movement. We will trace back to the 1980s, the era of the genre’s pioneers in Japan, who faced linguistic and cultural challenges to follow the rapid rise of Japanese rap through the decades. The 1990s saw a remarkable stylistic diversification of Japanese rap, with the emergence of sub-genres such as gangsta rap, jazzy, and alternative rap, and an increasing adoption of the Japanese language in lyrics. This evening will provide an opportunity to understand how these developments have shaped the music industry and Japanese society as a whole.

Leading this conference are Roger Atangana Kolo (Attango), founder of Real Japanese Hip Hop (RJHH) – the leading foreign media dedicated to Japanese hip-hop outside of Japan – and Sonikem, a professional composer and DJ. These experts will share their in-depth knowledge and passion for this musical genre, offering a unique perspective on the impact and influence of Japanese rap.

Don’t miss this essential event for all music lovers, enthusiasts of Japanese culture, and hip-hop history aficionados. Join us for an evening of exchange, discovery, and celebration of the legacy and future of Japanese hip-hop at the Maison de la Culture du Japon à Paris.

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